MOLLE Webbing Modular Accessory Coupling for Soft and Hard Coolers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Soft coolers with MOLLE webbing lack versatile and convenient attachment options for additional storage and accessories without compromising their primary function, and existing solutions are often not compatible with both soft and hard coolers.
Innovation Solution
A modular two-component coupling system comprising a clip that attaches to the MOLLE webbing and a bracket that supports various modular subcomponents, allowing for additional storage and accessory attachments like cutting boards and fishing rod holders, which can be easily removed and used across different types of containers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If MOLLE webbing is added to soft coolers to enable accessory attachment, then adaptability and versatility are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies MOLLE (Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment) webbing to the soft cooler, which is a standardized attachment system originally designed for military backpacks. This universal system allows the cooler to accommodate multiple types of accessories (pouches, cup holders, tool organizers) that can be attached to MOLLE webbing on various containers including backpacks, thereby achieving multi-functionality and broad adaptability without redesigning attachment mechanisms for each accessory type.
2Adaptability or versatility
If accessories are attached to the cooler to provide additional storage and functionality, then adaptability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to potential interference with cooler operation
Solution Approach 1:
The MOLLE webbing and accessories are strategically positioned on the exterior surfaces of the cooler (sides, top, bottom) rather than on the lid or opening areas. This localized placement ensures that accessories provide additional storage functionality while being positioned away from the operational zones (lid opening, filling, draining), thus preventing interference with the cooler's primary functions.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a modular coupling system is used to attach accessories to MOLLE webbing, then adaptability and ease of operation are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment system is divided into two independent components: (1) the MOLLE webbing integrated into the cooler body, and (2) separate coupling mechanisms (clips, brackets, or direct MOLLE attachments) that attach to the webbing. This segmentation allows the cooler to retain its simple base structure while enabling modular accessory attachment, where accessories can be independently added or removed without affecting the cooler's integrity or requiring complex integrated mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
A modular system for a container with MOLLE webbing is described, comprising a two component coupling system including: 1), a clip component which couples to the MOLLE on the container; and 2), a bracket component that couples to the clip and support various modular subcomponents. The same modular accessory system works with hard coolers while allowing the lid to close flat against the lip of the bucket while the modular accessories are in use.